Sensory & Consumer Experience- Foundations

Overview

• Conduct qualitative sensory and consumer research in support of innovation product development and other human-centric research initiatives. The Foundations Sensory & Consumer Scientist will work independently with R&D, business teams and suppliers to design and conduct appropriate research to build learning and advance knowledge of product innovation to meet the business objectives
• Specifically, the scientist will design front end research plans, determine appropriate research methodologies, coordinate tests, analyze and interpret data, provide technical recommendations, and communicate results orally, and written.

• Develop and coordinate consumer-driven research plans in support of Foundational/Front-End Innovation to build deep empathy and ensure human needs are embedded in R&D's decision-making process
• Apply a variety of qualitative methods (including but not limited to ethnographies, consumer co-creations, diary studies, interviews, etc.) to discover whitespace opportunities, explore propositions and inform early-stage innovation
• Provide sound technical recommendations to enable R&D business decisions. Interpret qualitative data and translate insights into clear, compelling recommendations that influence product development and strategic decisions
• Develop research briefs, collaborating with research partners to ensure development of relevant consumer experiences
• Work in H2/H3 innovation spaces to ensure PepsiCo is a future ready organization, applying and developing forward-thinking approaches and capabilities to stay ahead of evolving consumer needs
• Curate and integrate consumer and category trends, uncovering emerging opportunities that challenge traditional thinking and inform project scope
• Analyze and integrate information from different sources in order to build holistic understanding of consumer behavior and provide robust project recommendations
• Advance R&D's human-centric understanding by building capabilities, participating in pilot programs, and applying new methodologies to deepen consumer empathy and drive innovation

• The expected compensation range for this position is between $69,900 - $117,000
• Location, confirmed job-related skills, experience, and education will be considered in setting actual starting salary. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process
• Bonus based on performance and eligibility target payout is 5% of annual salary paid out annually
• Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement
• In addition to salary, PepsiCo offers a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees and their families, subject to elections and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan

• MS or Ph.D.: Major in Food Science (thesis in Sensory), Sensory Science, Behavioral Science, or Consumer Psychology
• 1-3 years (with MS/PhD) or 3-5 years (with BS) Consumer Research experience within a major consumer packaged goods company or research supplier
• Deep expertise in qualitative research fundamentals and their application in new and existing product innovation. Must be comfortable with high levels of research complexity and open-ended questions
• Creative problem solver and out-of-the-box thinker, able to think creatively & holistically
• Knowledge of design thinking principles and the ability to apply human-centered design methodologies
• Experience in leading multiple complex projects independently and managing competing priorities with agility
• Exceptional storytelling and communication skills-able to navigate through complexity and deliver engaging, impactful insights
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity, with a strong ability to synthesize diverse perspectives and cultural nuances
• Highly collaborative, flexible, and team-oriented, contributing to idea generation and fostering a culture of innovation
• Experience in global organization welcomed but not required
• Travel may be required for the role U.S. and/or International
• Flexibility, dealing with ambiguity, cultural differences understanding, working in a matrix organization will be critical